Senator Serrano Speaks To Prospective College Students

Senator Serrano attended a college fair at the Academy of Mount St. Ursula to discuss opportunities in higher education with students in the Bronx.

"Every student should be aware of the programs offered at the state and federal level to help pay for college," said the Senator, discussing state programs such as HEOP. "If you have a will to further your education, government is committed to helping you find a way to achieve your dream."

However, in addition to seeking government aid, many students must find other private sources to fund their schooling. The Senator discussed the SLATE Act, which was passed unanimously by the New York State Legislature in 2007 to protect college students from potentially unscrupulous college loan providers.

"With the recent debacle on Wall Street, it is ever more important that students and parents are aware of how to protect themselves," said the Senator, who sits on the Senate Education and Higher Education Committees. "Your tuition will be one of the largest investments you make in your life, and it will pay you back huge dividends. However, lenders must make sure the process regarding these loans is open and transparent."